DOJ will monitor elections in California and New Jersey

The Trump administration announced that the Justice Department will monitor polling sites in California and New Jersey for the Nov. 4 election following requests from Republican officials. While monitoring is not unusual, Democrats view it as an intimidation tactic to suppress voter turnout. Voter fraud claims, particularly related to mail-in voting, have been deemed unfounded by many, including state officials.

California and New Jersey have crucial races on the ballot. In New Jersey, a close gubernatorial race is underway. In California, a measure aims to redraw congressional districts in favor of Democrats. Election monitors will focus on ballot security and transparency. Democrats have criticized the move as politically motivated. “We will not permit tactics masquerading as oversight to erode voter confidence,” said California’s Secretary of State Shirley Weber.